earl

earl. A title of nobility, formerly the highest in England but now the third highest, ranking between a marquis and a viscount. • This title corresponds with the French comte and the German graf. Originating with the Saxons, this title is the most ancient of the English peerage. William the Conqueror first made the title hereditary, giving it in fee to his nobles. No territorial, private, or judicial rights now accompany the title; it merely confers nobility and a hereditary seat in the House of Lords.

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词条贡献者

译员Terence，毕业于国内顶尖法学院，擅长翻译有关能源和自然资源领域的法律文件。